Everton were left to rue the width of David de Gea's crossbar as Leighton Baines whipped a delicious free-kick against the frame of United's goal towards the first half's close, while the away side's much maligned back four stood firm amid late pressure and a credible penalty appeal in the game's dying embers.

Ferguson had given Jonny Evans a vote of confidence following his sending off against City by restoring him in defence after suspension.

Evans took his place alongside Nemanja Vidic, himself sent off on UEFA Champions League duty recently, with Rio Ferdinand left on the bench.